The canal which runs next to the University of Birmingham is known as the Worcester and Birmingham Canal. The canal towpath is widely used for cycling. However, many people may not realize that the towpaths are the property of British Waterways.
BUBUG has been active in corresponding and meeting with British Waterways to improve the conditions for cyclists on the canals close to the Birmingham University campus. The management of British Waterways recognize the importance of the canal towpaths for cyclists and are supporting the use of cycles on the towpaths. British Waterways is also working directly with the University's Estates Management Division to upgrade the towpath in the vicinity of the University.
One of the impediments to cycling on the canal is the exit from the canal at University station. The steps are steep and carrying cycles up these steps requires determination!
One day, maybe we can argue the case successfully for the quality of access that cyclists joining the canal at Bournville Station now enjoy.
Although British Waterways welcomes careful cyclists on its towpaths, not all the towpaths are suitable for cycling and therefore not all are open to cyclists. Maps and routes are available at the British Waterways Waterscape site. Before taking to the towpath on your bike you should obtain a Cycle Permit, which is available free of charge and which you will need to display. These are available from British Waterways Customer Service Centre, or the British Waterways online form.
